The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a warning that the country may soon face another nationwide shutdown of medical services due to the Federal Government’s failure to honor a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the association.
In an urgent appeal directed at senior medical professionals and respected elders, posted on X, NARD Secretary-General, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim, cautioned that the nation is on the brink of a total and indefinite comprehensive strike.
NARD recalled that it suspended an indefinite strike on November 29 after 29 days of industrial action following the agreement with the government, which committed to meeting NARD’s demands within four weeks. However, the association emphasized that failure to implement these demands could trigger a new strike.
In a statement, the association reiterated its commitment to patient care but expressed frustration over the lack of progress. Dr. Ibrahim underscored the importance of the medical community’s support to avert this looming crisis, stating, “Resident doctors form the backbone of service delivery in Nigeria’s tertiary hospitals… they are overworked and increasingly demoralized.”
The association also highlighted the breakdown of trust in government relations, warning that if the MoU remains unaddressed, it could lead to a total disruption of healthcare services, impacting millions of patients across Nigeria.
NARD’s leadership has appealed to influential medical figures to intervene and encourage the government to act promptly, as their involvement could preserve industrial harmony and safeguard patient lives.
As of the latest updates, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has not responded to NARD’s warnings.
